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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Jack Rosser

Watford players and coaches in positive talks over wage cut during shutdown

Watford have held positive talks with players and coaching staff over wage reductions during the coronavirus shutdown.

The Hornets have been in discussions with their squad and coaches, including manager Nigel Pearson, for two weeks to ensure everyone is aware of the club's situation and position when it comes to managing the financial impact of Covid-19.

However, with staff not due to be paid until the end of April, there is no particular rush from any side at Vicarage Road to rush an agreement, though players remain the priority given any deal with the squad will provide the most funds.

With Premier League football having been suspended indefinitely, every club is having to assess their options with the threat of a combined loss of £1.2billion, including £762million in broadcasting revenue, looming over all 20 in the top flight.

Last week's Premier League shareholders meeting resulted in the announcement that clubs would consult their players over a 30 per cent wage cut, over 12 months and reviewed each month, in order to protect employment throughout the game, though talks are becoming increasingly fraught with players wanting clarity over what their wage cuts will support.

The public involvement of Gordon Taylor, the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) chief, and health secretary Matt Hancock - who has called on players to take cuts and "do their bit" - has only served to complicate discussions across the Premier League.

West Ham manager David Moyes this week volunteered to take a 30 per cent cut, following in the footsteps of Eddie Howe at Bournemouth and Brighton's Graham Potter, though many clubs are awaiting a conclusion to the talks with players before finalising other agreements.

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